Previously an outpost and a penal colony, Con Dao is now an uncrowded island with quiet beaches, rugged national parks and a fascinating history thanks to its striking natural beauty. Located off the South-East coast of mainland Vietnam, Con Dao is 145 miles from Ho Chi Minh City, only 45 minutes away by air, or 2 hours and a half from Soc Trang by speed boat. Con Dao represent the ultimate in secluded luxury, with much of the land entirely untouched. The largest of the islands is Con Son (commonly called Con Dao Island), also known by its colonised name of Iles Poulo Condore. Settled as early as the 16th century by Europeans and then the British East India Company two centuries later, the island has gone on to have a culturally rich and politically intense history. In addition to hiking, diving and exploring deserted coastal roads and beaches, there are excellent wildlife-watching opportunities such as the black giant squirrel and endemic bow-fingered gecko. 
